| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Chemistry |
| Lesson Topic: Interpret and use symbols for atoms, e.g. ${}_6^{12} \mathrm{C}$, and ions, e.g. ${}_{17}^{35} \mathrm{Cl}^{-}$ |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the parts of an atom and the meaning of atomic number (Z) and mass number (A).
- Write and interpret standard notation for atoms, isotopes, and ions.
- Distinguish isotopes of the same element and explain why they have identical chemical behaviour.
- Calculate the numbers of protons, neutrons, and electrons from a given symbol.
- Apply the notation to construct symbols for specified isotopes or ions.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- Printed worksheet with practice symbols
- Element cards showing symbols, Z and common isotopes
- Calculator (optional)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Exit‑ticket slips
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Introduction:
Begin with a quick recall: what do we know about protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom? Students connect this prior knowledge to the symbolic language chemists use. By the end of the lesson they will be able to correctly write and read atomic, isotopic and ionic symbols. Success will be checked through guided practice and an exit ticket.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5') – rapid‑fire questions on protons, neutrons and charge; answers recorded on the board.
- Direct instruction (10') – teacher explains the ${}_{Z}^{A}\mathrm{X}$ notation, isotopes and ion superscripts using slides and a nucleus diagram.
- Guided practice (12') – whole‑class conversion of element data into symbols; teacher checks understanding with questioning.
- Collaborative activity (10') – small groups use element cards to create isotope and ion symbols for assigned elements and share results.
- Independent worksheet (10') – students complete practice questions (write symbols, count particles, explain isotopic behaviour).
- Formative check (5') – exit ticket: write a specified isotope or ion symbol and a brief explanation of its notation.
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Conclusion:
Review the key points: atomic notation shows Z and A, isotopes differ only in neutrons, and ion notation adds the charge. Students submit their exit tickets, providing immediate feedback on mastery. For homework, assign five symbols to write (including at least one isotope and one ion) and a short paragraph explaining why isotopes of the same element share chemical behaviour.
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